Homophobic Bullying

Bullying someone because of his or her actual, or perceived, sexual orientation is called homophobic bullying.

It is one of the most invisible forms of bullying because there is a reluctance to talk about it. It may be difficult to tell someone you are being bullied because you are, or you think that you’re gay. Also, teachers are unsure how to tackle homophobic bullying appropriately.

Homophobic bullying causes permanent damage to young people, whether they are affirmed in their identity as lesbian, gay or bisexual, questioning their sexuality, or because someone thinks they may be lesbian, gay or bisexual.

It can affect any young person who doesn’t conform to traditional gender roles. Not all “artistic” or “sensitive” boys are gay and not all “sporty” girls are lesbian!

It manifests itself in rumour mongering, exclusion and verbal/physical bullying.

The most common form of homophobic bullying is name-calling. The term “gay” is frequently being used as a term of abuse. Young people use the word “gay” in a derogatory way to mean “rubbish”, “stupid” and “feminine.” For children questioning their sexuality, or being bullied because someone thinks they are lesbian or gay, this can be damaging and very cruel.

Homophobic Bullying can take many forms:

• Actual or threatened physical abuse
• Verbal abuse
• Suggestive comments, name calling and/or jokes
• Unwanted physical contact
• Offensive graffiti
• Offensive gestures and/or body language
• Being ignored and/or left out

Homophobic bullying can:

• Damage self-esteem
• Increase self-harm and suicide by young people
• Cause young people to skip school
• Effect educational attainment
• Create a culture of fear

Where can I go for help? Where can I get more information about tackling homophobic bullying?

Our online forum is open daily (times vary, so please check by clicking on the link on the homepage). By registering as a website member (anonymously) you will be able to speak online about your concerns with one of our trained listeners. You can also email us.

Stonewall Cymru campaigns for equality and justice for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. They have a major campaign, called Education for All, to tackle homophobia and homophobic bullying in schools across Wales.

Visit www.stonewallcymru.org.uk for more information and to take part in the campaign.

You may also like to visit www.ecwales.org.uk for additional help and advice.